Date of Conferral

5-29-2024

Date of Award

5-29-2024

Degree

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Karel Kurst-Swanger

Abstract

This research confronted a critical public administration challenge within a law enforcement agency: the absence of formal diversity training and policies. The study explored, from the perspective of officers, what the department should consider when developing future diversity training that can positively influence job performance, and from the perspective of officers, the policies or practices regarding diversity that would positively influence job performance. The study drew upon a conceptual framework, emphasizing the necessity of diversity training and its key components: why, who, what, and how. Employing a cross-sectional research design, quantitative data were gathered through surveys administered via SurveyMonkey to police officers. The analysis aimed at identifying areas to necessitate administrative adjustments and pinpointing topics crucial for inclusion in diversity training programs. Through analysis using SPSS, the study delved into the selected framework on diversity training, extracting conclusions and formulating recommendations. The findings offered valuable insights into the specific domains where training might be inadequate, delineating gaps, anticipated needs, and existing practices within the department’s diversity training initiatives. The recommendations, encapsulated in a memo, presented the results and analysis of the survey along with proposing strategies for fortifying diversity, equity, and inclusion within the police department. Furthermore, the study’s potential implications extended beyond the local context, aiming to inform law enforcement agencies nationwide to foster positive social change and advance public administration practices on a broader scale.

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